Is Your Pet In Pain?
We see a lot of older and elderly pets at Jenison Animal Hospital. Just like with people, getting older means dealing with pain, arthritis, and weaker bones that can lead to breaks or tendon tears. You can help your pet by looking out for symptoms that they are in pain and need a little extra tender loving care.
Symptoms of Pain in Pets
Symptoms to look for in your pet include:
- Lack of mobility
- Less active lifestyle
- Limping
- No longer going up and down stairs
- Drooling more than usual
- Licking more than usual
- Changes in behavior or temperament
- Not wanting to be pet in a certain place
- Not joining you in hard-to-reach rooms
- A lack of diet or interest in food
- Litter box issues
The first line of defense against a pet in pain is annual (or twice annual as they get older) wellness check-ins. Your veterinarian gets to see them, check in on them, and take note of changes in lifestyle. Preventive care means we can plan the best course of action for you and your pet.
Easing Pet Pain
Alleviating pet pain means maximizing your pet’s quality of life. It makes their life better (and yours a little easier). If their pain is properly managed, they can be with us longer, and it eases their day-to-day suffering. It also might improve the healing process if they have suffered a torn ligament or other injury.
Our Process
The first thing we do upon consultation is to evaluate your furry family member through a one-on-one with your veterinarian. We discuss their lifestyle changes, diet habits, and day-to-day routine. This could mean running in-house bloodwork, diagnostic, ultrasound, or X-ray checks.
We then offer options for treatment, based on the results of your pet’s checkup. Remember, we want to get to the core of the issue to help your pet live their best life!
Treatments can include:
- Medications
- Consistent bloodwork to verify medication works
- Lifestyle adjustments, including possible limitation to where they can go in the house
- Dietary Supplements or adjustments
- Possible surgery to remove a foreign body
- Referred Physical Therapy or Acupuncture (not offered at this location)
- Offer guidance and assistance for long-term help
Has your pet been showing signs of pain or discomfort? Call us at (616) 457-9200 or schedule an appointment on our online form.